Sermon Reflections

I know I'm a bit late. Some weeks are like that...

Last Sunday's reading from the Gospel according to Luke was a tough one. After worship I asked Grant if my sermon seemed harsh. He hesitated. So I added, "Well, Jesus' words were harsh." And he said something like, "Yes, and you stuck to them." There you go, then.
(Check out the reading, Luke 14: 25-33 and see for yourself.)

We had friends from Missoula stay with us Saturday night, who also came to worship Sunday morning. Julie is a pastor's kid, grew up in the church, and now is raising her son in church, too. We talked a little about the reading, and the sermon, over brunch. She said she appreciated the challenge to live differently, noting that following Jesus isn't always supposed to be easy or comfortable. It might make us squirm to have our shortcomings called out, but that doesn't mean it's not good for us.

I told her about a great line I read somewhere (I have no idea where): People don't commit to that which requires no commitment.

Jesus requires commitment of his disciples. To me it goes back to the first commandment: You shall have no other gods. God is first. In all things. Lord help our lives reflect that, each and every day.